Alan Shearer issues live Match of the Day apology to Sunderland fans after Ipswich defeat

Alan Shearer admitted he got Sunderland badly wrong last season before raising concerns over their European schedule

Alan Shearer apologised to Sunderland supporters live on Match of the Day after admitting he got his prediction badly wrong last season.

The former Newcastle United striker had tipped the Black Cats for relegation following their return to the Premier League, only for Régis Le Bris’ side to finish seventh and qualify for the Europa League.

Speaking after Sunderland’s opening-day defeat at Ipswich Town, Shearer was reminded of that prediction and held his hands up. “They surprised everyone last year, and I apologise for saying I thought they would have got relegated, but they were brilliant,” Shearer said. “I did, I did, I’ve just said it, I’m not saying it again.”

The Match of the Day pundit still believes Sunderland face a tougher challenge this time around, with European football adding demands to Le Bris’ squad. “I think it’ll be a different season this season because you’re right, the energy that they showed, their home form particularly, was superb,” Shearer added.

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“More importantly, I think playing so many times on a Thursday evening in Europe and then having to go again on a Sunday, it will be challenging for them. With them only signing two players as well, two full-backs, so I think it’ll be a different season for Sunderland this season.”

Sunderland began the campaign with defeat at Portman Road, where former winger Jack Clarke scored the winner for Ipswich. Shearer’s apology will have raised a smile among Sunderland supporters after the club proved his prediction wrong last season.